How to Fix "Not Secure" or "Not Private" Connection Errors

When browsing the web, you may encounter warnings such as "Not Secure" or "Not Private" in your browser's address bar. These warnings indicate that the connection between your browser and the website is not encrypted or that there is an issue with the website's security certificate. This article explains the causes of these errors and provides step-by-step solutions to resolve them.

What Do "Not Secure" and "Not Private" Errors Mean?

1. "Not Secure" Warning:

• This warning appears when a website is using HTTP instead of HTTPS. HTTP is not encrypted, meaning any data you send or receive (e.g., passwords, credit card information) can be intercepted by attackers.

• Modern browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge display this warning to alert users about potential risks.

1. "Not Private" Warning:

• This warning indicates an issue with the website's SSL/TLS certificate. SSL/TLS certificates are used to establish a secure, encrypted connection (HTTPS) between your browser and the website.

• Common causes include an expired, invalid, or misconfigured certificate.

Causes of "Not Secure" or "Not Private" Errors

1. Website Uses HTTP Instead of HTTPS:

• The website does not have an SSL/TLS certificate installed, or it is not configured to use HTTPS.

1. Expired or Invalid SSL/TLS Certificate:

• The website's SSL/TLS certificate has expired or is not issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).

1. Misconfigured SSL/TLS Certificate:

• The certificate is not properly configured for the domain or subdomain.

1. Browser or System Date/Time Incorrect:

• If your device's date and time are incorrect, the browser may think the certificate is invalid.

1. Network Issues:

• Interference from firewalls, proxies, or antivirus software can disrupt secure connections.

1. Outdated Browser:

• An outdated browser may not support modern security protocols or recognize newer certificates.

How to Fix "Not Secure" or "Not Private" Errors

1. Check the Website URL

• Ensure the website URL starts with https:// instead of http://.

• If the website only supports HTTP, avoid entering sensitive information.

2. Verify the SSL/TLS Certificate

• Click on the padlock icon in the browser's address bar to view the certificate details.

• Check if the certificate is valid and issued by a trusted CA.

3. Update Your Browser

• Ensure your browser is up to date. Outdated browsers may not support modern security standards.

• Go to your browser's settings and check for updates.

4. Check Your System Date and Time

• Incorrect date and time settings can cause SSL/TLS errors.

• On Windows:

1. Right-click on the clock in the taskbar.

2. Select "Adjust date/time."

3. Enable "Set time automatically" and "Set time zone automatically."

• On macOS:

1. Go to System Preferences > Date & Time.

2. Check "Set date and time automatically."

5. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

• Cached data can sometimes cause connection issues.

• Clear your browser's cache and cookies:

1. Open your browser settings.

2. Navigate to "Privacy and Security."

3. Select "Clear browsing data."

6. Disable Firewalls, Proxies, or Antivirus Temporarily

• Security software or network settings may interfere with secure connections.

• Temporarily disable these tools to see if the issue resolves.

• If the error disappears, adjust the settings of your security software to allow secure connections.

7. Try a Different Network

• Network issues, such as those caused by public Wi-Fi or corporate networks, can trigger these errors.

• Switch to a different network (e.g., mobile hotspot) to see if the problem persists.

8. Contact the Website Owner

• If the issue is specific to a particular website, the problem may be on their end.

• Contact the website owner or administrator and inform them about the SSL/TLS issue.

9. Use a Different Browser or Device

• Test the website on a different browser or device to rule out browser-specific issues.

Preventing "Not Secure" or "Not Private" Errors as a Website Owner

If you own a website, follow these steps to ensure your visitors do not encounter these errors:

1. Install an SSL/TLS Certificate:

• Obtain an SSL/TLS certificate from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).

• WeWP offers free SSL certificates via Let's Encrypt.

1. Configure Your Website to Use HTTPS:

• Ensure all traffic is redirected from HTTP to HTTPS.

• Update internal links and resources to use HTTPS.

1. Renew Certificates Before Expiry:

• Set up reminders to renew your SSL/TLS certificates before they expire.

1. Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF):

• A WAF can help protect your website from attacks and ensure secure connections.

1. Test Your Website's SSL Configuration:

• Use tools like SSL Labs' SSL Test to check your website's SSL configuration.

Conclusion:

"Not Secure" or "Not Private" errors are important warnings that should not be ignored. By following the steps outlined above, you can resolve these errors and ensure a secure browsing experience. If you are a website owner, taking proactive measures to secure your site will help build trust with your visitors and protect their data.